Description
A one-pan, flavor-packed twist on the classic lasagna! This Pesto Skillet Lasagna combines tender pasta, creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and the fresh, herbaceous kick of pesto. With minimal prep, you’ll have a comforting and delicious meal ready in no time—perfect for weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 10 no-boil lasagna noodles, broken into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for topping
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat the Broiler
Set the oven broiler to preheat with the rack positioned 5 inches from the heat source. - Cook the Spinach
Heat olive oil in a 10-inch broiler-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the spinach in two batches, tossing constantly until wilted (about 2 minutes per batch). Transfer to a bowl and set aside. - Make the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the skillet. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 2 minutes until the mixture turns light brown. Gradually whisk in warmed milk, cooking for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in pesto and kosher salt. - Combine Spinach and Pasta
Return the cooked spinach to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce. Add 3/4 cup of water to loosen the mixture. Using tongs, submerge the broken lasagna noodle pieces into the sauce. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 14–15 minutes, or until noodles are tender. - Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a small bowl, mix ricotta cheese with lemon zest. - Assemble the Lasagna
Once the noodles are cooked, dollop the ricotta mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle grated mozzarella evenly over the top. - Broil to Finish
Transfer the skillet to the preheated broiler. Broil for about 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. - Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, top with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot.
Notes
-
- Substitutions: Feel free to swap spinach for kale or arugula, and use low-fat ricotta or mozzarella if preferred.
- Protein Option: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the skillet for extra heartiness.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Pro Tip: Warming the milk before adding it to the skillet helps create a smooth, lump-free sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Broiling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian